Nestled in the heart of West Berkshire lies the picturesque town of Newbury. Although the town is quite small in size, it has plenty to offer!

Newbury Town Centre

Founded in the late 11th century following the Norman Conquest, it’s clear to see that Newbury is full of history. The town itself has a large market square which is surrounded by beautiful medieval architecture. There is a good selection of well known high street names and independent shops in the town centre, yet it still maintains an appealing, rural atmosphere.

 

Places of Interest

Newbury Racecourse

Hosting some of the most exciting horse races for over 110 years, Newbury Racecourse is one of the most prestigious sporting venues in the UK. The racecourse offers 29 fantastic race days and evenings for all of the family to enjoy every year, including the Al Shaqab Lockinge Stakes and the Ladbrokes Winter Carnival.

You can even book event space at the distinguished stands and The Owners Club, for parties, exhibitions, conferences and even weddings!

With over 50 event spaces available, Newbury Racecourse can accommodate all.

The Lodge Hotel is also within the grounds of the racecourse, offering 36 excellent rooms, great service and a bar, which is also available to the public.

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Image Source: events.newburyracecourse.co.uk

Highclere Castle

Mostly recognised as the home of Downtown Abbey, Highclere Castle is one of the most famous houses in the world. The 5,000 acre estate offers tours of the historic building and hosts a variety of events throughout the year.

Highclere Castle

Image Source: visit-hampshire.co.uk

The Living Rainforest

About 20 minutes North of Newbury* lies The Living Rainforest. With over 700 plants and animals to explore in this lush, tropical environment, this is a fantastic day out for friends and family.

*Driving time taken from Google Maps

 

Bombay Sapphire Distillery

With over 1000 years of history, the Bombay Sapphire Distillery is a great experience for gin enthusiasts. The Distillery is only a 25 minute drive from Newbury* and offers, tastings, cocktail classes and tours.

As a preferred partner to The Lodge hotel, all guests receive 20% off to experience the tours.

*Driving time taken from Google Maps

Bombay Sapphire Distillery

Image Source: distillery.bombaysapphire.com

Nature & Parks

Welford Park

Close to Newbury is the beautiful Welford Park country house and estate. Welford is famously known as being the location of The Great British Bake Off so if you have watched any of the episodes, you will know how beautiful the estate is.

Welford Park

Image Source: www.welfordpark.co.uk

Snelsmore Common Country Park

With over 90 hectares of beautiful heathland, Snelsmore Common is a great place to relax or go exploring through the intricate network of paths that wind their way through this natural landscape.

The River Kennet

Meandering through the heart of Newbury is the River Kennet. The river also has its own natural trails and is popular for narrow boating and rowing.

 

Business Parks

Newbury Business Park

Only a 5 minute drive away from Newbury Racecourse, this Business Park has superb access to the M4 motorway. There are a huge variety of high quality buildings at the park including the 4100 and The Sector.

newbury business park

Image Source: www.4100newburybusinesspark.com

Greenham Business Park

Greenham Business Park is the largest employment site in the area, covering 150 acres. The award winning business park is surrounded on three sides by Greenham Common, providing 750 acres of beautiful lowland heathland.

Newbury Racecourse is only a 20 minute drive from Greenham Business Park.

 

Theatres and Entertainment

Corn Exchange

The Corn Exchange is one of the most popular arts centres in Berkshire. The 400-seat theatre has hosted some of the greatest performers in the UK including:

  • The Who
  • Jo Brand
  • Russell Brand
  • Lee Mack
  • Jimmy Carr
  • Al Murray
  • Alan Carr

The arts centre also includes a 40 seat independent cinema and thriving kitchen & bar.

the corn exchange newbury

Image Source: cornexchangenew.com

The Watermill Theatre

Established in 1967, The Watermill Theatre is a picturesque venue, which was previously converted from the 200-year old ancient mill of Bangor. Many of its original features remain such as the waterwheel and wooden beams.

Arlington Arts

If you are looking for live, local music, Arlington Arts is one of the most popular places to find it. Located on the campus of Mary Hare School, this venue has a great reputation for unearthing new talent in the area.

Travel Links

By Train

Newbury has two train stations:

  • Newbury Station
  • Newbury Racecourse

The main station has fantastic links to Reading, Taunton, Bedwyn and London Paddington. It can take about an hour* to travel from Newbury to London via train.

*Source from thetrainline.com

Newbury Racecourse also has its own train station, so whether you are attending a race day, conference, event or even a wedding you will be able to arrive in style! The station also serves The Lodge hotel and benefits from direct trains to Reading and London Paddington.

By Car

You can drive to Newbury via the following routes:

From the M4

Exit the M4 at Junction 13 and join the A34 for Newbury. Follow the signs for Newbury, joining the A339.

From the M3

Exit the M3 at Junction 9 (signed to the Midlands, Newbury and A34). Join the A34 heading North, leave the A34 at the exit sign posted Newbury B4640.

 

Looking for a place to stay?

Here at Newbury Racecourse, we have a fantastic boutique hotel offering 36 excellent rooms, located just outside of Newbury Town Centre. The Lodge provides a great service and serves delicious snacks, breakfast, lunch and main meals at their restaurant.

If you are interested in staying at The Lodge hotel, please contact our friendly reception team who are on hand 24 hours a day to help with anything you need.

Phone: 01635 39673

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.thelodgenewbury.co.uk